1. Zakat Prevents Evils Such as Theft and Exploitation
Every command of Allah the Almighty carries both material and spiritual wisdom and benefit. One of the greatest wisdoms of zakat is that, while earning divine pleasure, it also brings peace, harmony, and security to society. Just as usury and unjust gain lead people to ruin and moral decay, zakat—charity and giving in the way of Allah—restores balance, compassion, and social justice.
Among the causes that drive people toward wrongdoing are the whisperings of the self that commands evil, the deceit of Satan, corrupt companions, and—as the Prophet [sallallahu alayhi wa sallam] warned—poverty that causes one to forget his Lord. If poverty leads a person to forget Allah, it becomes a calamity that destroys both faith and morals. For one who forgets his Lord no longer fears sin, and thus falls easily into error.
A person enslaved by his desires or crushed by hardship may, whether willingly or not, fall into envy or resort to theft and deception. Likewise, those who become overly attached to wealth, driven by greed, may seek unlawful gain through deceit or oppression.
Zakat and charity given to debtors, travelers, and the needy protect them from desperation. They relieve their suffering, prevent them from turning to evil paths, and nurture mercy in their hearts. Such acts strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among Muslims, increase love and solidarity, and close the doors to corruption and sin.
As Imam al-Sha‘rani [quddisa sirruhu] beautifully stated:
“If the wealthy paid their zakat as due, no Muslim poor would remain destitute, none would need to beg, and none would be driven to disgrace or sin.”
2. Zakat Encourages Work and Protects from Humiliation and Dependence
Islam commands earning a lawful living and spending in the way of Allah, discouraging laziness and dependence on others. The Prophet [sallallahu alayhi wa sallam] said:
“The upper hand (that gives) is better than the lower hand (that receives).”
Thus, zakat is not a system of dependency—it motivates the poor to rise, to work, and to strive toward becoming self-sufficient and, in time, givers themselves.
Even if a recipient meets his immediate need through zakat, the essence of this obligation is to help him regain stability and dignity so that he may one day give, not receive.
Zakat serves also as a source of capital and strength for the poor. It prevents the hoarding of wealth and keeps money circulating within society rather than confined to the hands of the rich. It releases the wealthy from servitude to materialism, revives economic life through charitable spending, and gives the poor both the means and motivation to work.
Zakat and charity, when practiced sincerely, generate economic vitality—not only lifting individuals but strengthening entire nations, inspiring them to be the “upper hand,” the hand that gives.
3. Zakat Prevents Envy and Increases Solidarity and Love in Society
Envy and jealousy are among the gravest diseases of the soul—roots of hatred, greed, and division. These feelings often arise from social injustice, hoarded wealth, and neglect of the poor. When the rich withhold zakat and live in indulgence, while the poor suffer in hunger and debt, resentment and hostility naturally grow between them.
Islam eradicates the causes of such division. It forbids extravagance and exploitation, commands justice, and restores to the poor their rightful share from the wealth of the rich. It prohibits usury and all forms of unjust gain, and encourages acts of charity and generosity that nurture mutual care and compassion.
When zakat is given properly, the hearts of the poor are comforted and the arrogance of the rich is subdued. Instead of resentment, love grows; instead of envy, gratitude; instead of hostility, unity.
Thus, zakat is not merely a financial duty — it is a divine system that purifies hearts, strengthens bonds, and builds a society founded upon mercy, justice, and brotherhood.
